BJC’s Post

Concern from certain members of Congress expressed in a letter last week about organizations that have been granted "church" status by the IRS. Here are two excerpts: > "We write to express our continued concerns about the tax-exempt status of certain organizations, including the Family Research Council, which are self-identifying as “churches” or “associations of churches” to receive more favorable tax treatment than other tax-exempt organizations." > "FRC is one example of an alarming pattern of rightwing advocacy groups applying for and obtaining church status. This is a claim that strains credulity: FRC does not hold religious services, does not have a congregation or affiliated congregations, and does not possess many of the other attributes of churches listed by the IRS."

🚨 New Blog Alert: Enhancing Security for Religious Institutions in Uncertain Times 🚨 In light of the recent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, we've delved into the implications this incident has on the security of our cherished places of worship. Churches, synagogues, and other religious institutions are more vulnerable than ever, and it’s crucial to take proactive measures to protect our communities. Our latest blog explores: 🔍 The rising political and social tensions affecting religious institutions 🔍 Why religious institutions are considered "soft targets" 🔍 Practical steps to bolster security and protect congregations 🔍 The importance of community vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement 🔒 FREE Security Assessments Now Through the Election 🔒 Phillips Protection Consulting is offering FREE security assessments for all religious institutions through the upcoming election period. Ensure your place of worship is safe and secure for your community. 📝 Read the full blog and learn how to safeguard your congregation: https://lnkd.in/gABfZ8Cw 📞 Contact us today to schedule your free security assessment: 423-206-6846 Let's work together to create a safer environment for our communities. Share this post to spread the word and help protect our places of worship! #ChurchSecurity #SynagogueSafety #CommunitySafety #PhillipsProtectionConsulting #FreeSecurityAssessment

"In her comments to Christian Daily International, Tagaloa castigated churches for protecting themselves rather than serving the needs of abuse survivors and for their inability to offer appropriate apologies and support." An excellent article interviewing Frances Tagaloa, a Christian survivor of abuse in a faith-based community in Aotearoa, and advocate for survivors with the recent Royal Commission of Inquiry into Abuse in Care. Fore more see the article here - https://lnkd.in/gXfwD4fK

Religious faith can offer comfort during tough times—unless the crisis involves abuse by a clergy member. Unfortunately, abuse within religious institutions is a reality many face but few speak about. In the second part of her blog series, Senior Counsel Simona Jellinek dives deep into the rates of clergy abuse across different religious institutions and provides guidance on how survivors can seek justice. Read the full post at the link below to understand the scope of this issue and learn what steps can be taken to support those affected. https://bit.ly/3X3PoEh

If you follow my page regularly, no surprise. Once again - almost everywhere you look, you'll notice "Expose Content", here is an example from a Mainstream publication. || #Media || #ContentMarketingStrategy || #Marcom

How do incidents like the fatal stabbing of Father Stephen Gutgsell impact the sense of security within religious communities, and what measures can be taken to enhance the safety of clergy members? Heartbreaking Loss: Catholic Priest Fatally Stabbed in Church Rectory. Questions Arise on Clergy Safety and Community Healing. Nebraska authorities arrest Kierre Williams for the fatal stabbing of Father Stephen Gutgsell at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. The incident raises concerns about the safety of clergy members, with the suspect having a criminal history. The community mourns as investigations continue, and prayers are requested by the Archdiocese of Omaha. Key Takeaways: - Tragic Incident: Father Stephen Gutgsell fatally stabbed in church rectory, sparking discussions on clergy safety and the need for enhanced security measures in religious institutions. - Suspect's History: Arrest of Kierre Williams, with a criminal past, prompts reflections on balancing forgiveness with the imperative for security in religious communities. - Community Mourning: The community comes together in mourning, seeking support and healing in the aftermath of the tragic event, highlighting the pivotal role of religious leaders in fostering unity. #churchsecurity #churchsafety #crimenews https://lnkd.in/gA4jy5XM

A righteous win for the survivors. The recent landmark decision made in GLJ v The Trustees of the Diocese of Lismore [2023] HCA 32 has massive ramifications for those who have survived historical sexual abuse and now provides them with a better opportunity to obtain the justice that they deserve. Our summary of this landmark decision can be found right here: https://lnkd.in/gx2wE3e4

Finally! Some common sense!

Federal Regulations: Can requistes be placed on 501c3 entities, to better stimulate American Economy and Societal Issues? Should Churchs and Church Organizations be held at fault, and stripped of 501c3 status, based on the concept that 501c3 status encouraged churches, and other entities, due to social advances? And argued that these "advances" have not been met? And due to reason that national deficit dissuades religious belief and priciple? "The government knows that church organizations provide valuable social and religious benefits to the community. To encourage these religious organizations and help them exist, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) exempts 501(c)(3) churches from taxation by the federal government." Arguable Points: • "Good faith" •Economic Struggles •Political Bias https://lnkd.in/ePPtAntD. AmericA 🇺🇸🏴☠️ #501c3

Senior Counsel, Simona Jellinek, has just published an insightful two-part blog series on a critically important topic—Sexual Abuse by Clergy in Religious Institutions. In Part 1, Simona explores how religious environments can foster conditions for abuse, identifies common characteristics of clergy abusers, and categorizes different types of offenders. Understanding these factors is crucial for survivors, their families, and communities affected by such abuse. Click the link below to read the full blog and learn more about this critical issue. https://bit.ly/46pPwkt